First Aid Vomiting

Pets vomit occasionally and this is not cause for direct concern. However if it happens often or more violently then normal it needs to be addressed.

 

What can cause vomiting and should therefore be avoided/taken care off;

 

• •    eating grass (don’t let your pet overdo it)
• •    eaten something that is off (prevent eating garbage)
• •    hairballs (buy food for hairball control or add a laxative on regular bases)
• •    sudden food change (mix food for 2 weeks before complete change)
• •    intestinal parasites (have you de-wormed your pet recently?)

You can cure this type of vomiting by starving the animal for 12 to 24 hours and after this feed your pet his/her own food in smaller more frequent portions throughout the day for the next few days. Make sure that your pet always has access to cool (not cold) water to prevent dehydration from vomiting. You can also add some electrolytes to restore the loss in electrolytes. If the vomiting continues you need to see a veterinarian.

Always make sure that your pet is behaving in a normal way when deciding to try mastering the vomiting pet yourself. He/she should be eating normally, be active as before and have a normal appearance. If this is not the case do not try to cure the vomiting at home but bring your pet in for an examination, sometimes even as an emergency.

Things to consider are;

• •    Possible poisoning
• •    Something stuck in the throat
• •    In pain
• •    Distressed or depressed
• •    Lethargic
• •    Blood in vomit
• •    Projectile vomiting, no stools seen in 1 or 2 days
• •    Possibly eaten a toy, bone or other
• •    Has a fever
• •    Abdomen seems swollen or appears bloated
• •    Your pet acts like he wants to vomit, but nothing is expelled
• •    Your pet’s gums are pale or yellow
• •    Your pet is very young of age or has not received all the necessary vaccinations

Do not give your pet any medications, including over-the-counter human medications unless advised by your veterinarian to do so.